Obituary

They say that a solitary drop of water, given enough time, can erode even the hardest stone. Cathy, a force of nature in her own right, proved this to be true in her remarkable journey through life.

It is with heavy hearts that we celebrate the life of a woman who was a resilient spirit, and a loving mother and grandmother. Cathy, affectionately known as the River Cat, made the most of her hard-earned adventures and cherished the time she had with her family, leaving an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege to know her. From her role as the night auditor for the Airport Hilton to her tireless volunteer work as a Girl Scout leader and Nature Director at Camp Seikooc, as well as her tenure as Senior Administrator for the Center for Women’s Studies and Director of the Plaza of Heroines at Wichita State University, Cathy guided and mentored a multitude of people who remember her fondly.

Cathy's story was one of undeniable strength and tenacity. She faced a lifetime of challenges and trials, yet she never stayed down for long, continuing to carve out her own path despite the obstacles in her way. Throughout her journey, she remained fiercely independent and never allowed adversity to break her spirit. She pushed through physical pain and emotional turmoil, refusing to succumb to the hardships that battered her along the way.

Cathy's legacy is one of hope and inspiration, showing us that even in the face of the most challenging circumstances, one can persevere, thrive, and love. We commemorate a remarkable woman who, like a steadfast river, continued to flow, never giving in to the savageness of the world and who never stopped demanding the space she rightfully deserved. Little Baby Williams, left abandoned and then adopted by the loving couple Patsy Ruth & Lawrence Hess, would go on to become the matriarch of an extensive family of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Carrying on her legacy of strength, love, and resilience to inspire generations to come are her children: Amber (Marc) Mans Mosteller, Jodie (Joe) Simon, & Randy (Joni) Mans, along with her grandchildren, Madolin (Shean), Catlin (Martin), Jordan (Randi), Allie, Kobe, Tristan, Skylar (Tina), Payton (Ilene), Darling, Russ, Randi, Rubi, Hazel, Joey, Frankie; and great-grandchildren, Bekah, Beau, Myla, Moxie, Boston, and Evelyn. She is survived by her brother, Steve Hess.

May you find more adventures and less strife in the afterlife, Cathy, the River Cat. Your spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved you.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Wichita Airport on Friday, November 10th, 2023 from 6 – 8 pm.

Please join us in remembering this remarkable woman.